Trend Naija

Abia State governor Alex Otti has warned against political violence and intimidation ahead of the 2027 elections.

What he said

Speaking to supporters on Monday, 9 November 2026, Otti said no person or group had his mandate to attack opposition parties or stop their members from campaigning. He directed security agencies to arrest and deal decisively with anyone who tries to disrupt lawful political activities in the state, regardless of party, including members of his own Labour Party.

Background

Concerns about political violence have grown as campaigns intensify. In the past week, one person died and five were injured in a clash at an NDC rally in Asaba, Delta State, and supporters of different parties have been attacked in other states. INEC has also condemned inflammatory slogans and warned of plots against election workers. Otti, a former banker, won the Abia governorship on the Labour Party platform in 2023, when Peter Obi was the party's presidential candidate. Obi has since moved to the NDC.

The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has defended President Bola Tinubu's physical fitness for a second term.

What he said

Speaking on a television politics programme on Monday, 9 November 2026, Yilwatda pointed to the President's busy weekend in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states as evidence of his health. He said he was there in person when Tinubu danced to local music in Akwa Ibom, and that the President attended a dinner and town hall meeting late on Friday before travelling to Rivers the next morning. He argued that someone who was not fit could not manage 48 hours of non-stop engagements and travel.

Background

Critics have raised questions about the President's health since before the 2023 election, and Obi has previously criticised the time Tinubu spends abroad. His supporters say he is fully fit and point to his campaign tour, which this week also includes Ebonyi and Jigawa states.

What happens next

The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Kano State governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has launched a monthly grant scheme for women in the state.

The scheme

The governor unveiled the programme at the Open Theatre in Government House, Kano, on Monday, 9 November 2026. Under the scheme, 5,200 women across the state will each receive ₦50,000 a month. The governor's chief press secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, said in a statement on Tuesday that the aim is to give women the means to start or expand businesses and reduce their dependence on others for income.

The governor's message

Yusuf urged the women to put the money into productive ventures rather than consumption, and said his government had put safeguards in place to ensure the funds reach the intended beneficiaries. He said transparency, fairness and accountability would guide the programme.

Background

The scheme comes as the federal government rolls out its own ₦50,000 monthly relief payments to selected households under the National Emergency Relief and Stabilisation Intervention.

Businessman and social media personality Linus Williams, popularly known as Blord, has drawn attention after being seen in a cap linked to Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.

What happened

During a visit to Kano State, reported on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, Blord was seen wearing a cap with the words 'Nigeria Must Be OK', a slogan associated with Kwankwaso, the NDC's vice-presidential candidate on Peter Obi's ticket. Many social media users took it as a possible sign of support for the Obi–Kwankwaso campaign.

Background

The appearance drew attention because Blord had earlier declared support for activist Omoyele Sowore after Sowore was released from Kuje Prison in April 2026. At the time, Blord praised Sowore for intervening in his own legal case, described himself as a member of the Revolution Now movement and was presented with a branded beret. Blord has not publicly announced any change in his political allegiance.

VeryDarkMan's elder brother, known as Macavelli, has unveiled a new home for artists signed to his record label, Velli Music Worldwide.

The video

In a video reported on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, Macavelli gave a tour of a four-bedroom property he described as the label's new home, with rooms for artists, a kitchen and space for a music studio, and said some work was still being done. He recalled that he had earlier complained about being unable to secure an apartment because of a problem with a landlord, and said the label had eventually got a larger property for the same amount.

The logo

The label's logo caught the attention of social media users because of its resemblance to the branding of Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), Davido's record label.

Background

The unveiling comes during a bitter public feud between VeryDarkMan and Davido, with the activist releasing a series of videos and recordings aimed at the singer and his associates. Some fans accused the label of using Davido's brand for attention.

Singer Timaya has sparked dating rumours after sharing photos with a woman identified as Joy Adesanya.

The post

On Tuesday, 10 November 2026, Timaya posted a series of photos on Instagram showing himself and Joy Adesanya on board a private jet. His caption, framed as a confession about a long-running personal 'secret battle', ended with a playful punchline rather than any explanation, which only fuelled curiosity about the pair.

No confirmation

Neither Timaya nor Joy Adesanya has confirmed or denied any romantic relationship.

Background

Timaya, whose real name is Inetimi Odon, is one of Nigeria's best-known dancehall artists and the founder of DM Records. He is known for hits such as 'Plantain Boy' and 'Bum Bum'. He was seen talking with Burna Boy at an event last week, in a video that went viral for other reasons.

Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger is reportedly considering a bid to challenge Gianni Infantino in the upcoming FIFA presidential election.

What is reported

According to reports on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, key football figures, including leaders within European governing body UEFA, have been lobbying the 77-year-old Frenchman to stand before the nomination deadline of 18 November, and a decision is expected this week. European officials are said to have grown disillusioned with Infantino after controversies over FIFA's commercial plans.

Background

Wenger managed Arsenal for 22 years, winning three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups, and has been FIFA's chief of global football development since November 2019. Infantino has led FIFA since 2016 and has overseen the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams.

A United States congressional committee will hold a hearing this week to review Nigeria's record on protecting Christians and tackling violence in the Middle Belt.

The hearing

The House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee will hold the session on Thursday, 12 November 2026, according to a notice from the office of its chairman, Republican Congressman Chris Smith of New Jersey, issued on Monday. The hearing is titled 'One Year Later: Assessing Nigeria's Efforts to Protect Christians and Secure the Middle Belt'.

What will be discussed

The hearing will examine religious violence by extremist groups, including Boko Haram, and how effectively the Nigerian government has responded to attacks on vulnerable communities. It will also consider what measures the United States could press for to make sure perpetrators are held accountable and to prevent future attacks on Christians and non-radical Muslims. The first panel will hear from two senior State Department officials, Frank Garcia, assistant secretary of state for African affairs, and Riley Barnes, assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour, followed by outside experts.

Background

The title refers to developments around a year ago, when the US designated Nigeria a 'Country of Particular Concern' over religious freedom. The Nigerian government has rejected claims of a targeted genocide against Christians, saying insecurity affects people of all faiths, and has pointed to military operations against armed groups. Attacks have continued in states such as Plateau and Benue, including a deadly attack in Barkin Ladi at the weekend.

Articles of impeachment have been introduced in the US House of Representatives against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

What happened

Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky brought the resolution on Monday, 9 November 2026, as Congress returned for a 'lame-duck' session after the midterm elections. Massie accused Hegseth of high crimes and misdemeanours and abuse of power, alleging that he violated the War Powers Resolution by carrying out military operations against Iran and other countries without a declaration of war or specific authorisation from Congress.

Background

The United States has been in a conflict with Iran since late February, with US forces carrying out strikes on Iranian targets as recently as last week. President Donald Trump has insisted the US is not at war, but has acknowledged that the conflict contributed to his party's heavy losses in the midterms, partly by pushing up petrol prices.

What happens next

Impeachment would require a majority vote in the House, followed by a trial in the Senate.

Davido and his wife Chioma have arrived in Tanzania, where they were welcomed by Tanzanian music star Diamond Platnumz and his wife, singer Zuchu.

The video

Footage shared on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, shows the two couples exchanging warm greetings after the Nigerians' arrival. One moment quickly became the talking point: Davido carrying Chioma's handbag and waiting while she got into her car, a gesture many fans said showed the strength of their relationship. The reason for the trip has not been officially announced.

Background

Davido and Diamond Platnumz are two of Africa's biggest music stars and have collaborated before. Davido and Chioma held their widely celebrated wedding in Lagos in June 2024. The trip comes during an ongoing public feud between Davido and social media activist VeryDarkMan, who has been releasing videos and recordings aimed at the singer and his associates.

Nigeria's representative at Miss Universe 2026, Danielle Adewusi, has arrived in Puerto Rico ahead of the competition.

The arrival

Her arrival was confirmed on the Miss Universe Nigeria Facebook page on Tuesday, 10 November 2026. Adewusi was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria on 27 September at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, beating 19 other contestants while representing Lagos State.

The pageant

The 75th Miss Universe pageant will hold on 24 November at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan. The organisers say up to 120 countries and territories will take part, one of the largest fields in the competition's history.

How to support her

Nigerians can support Adewusi through the fan vote and 'Beyond the Crown' categories, which are currently open.

Background

Nigeria has never won Miss Universe. The country's best recent result came in 2024, when Chidimma Adetshina finished as first runner-up, the highest placing by a Nigerian in the competition's history.

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Lateef Adedimeji has sparked debate after speaking favourably about two of President Bola Tinubu's skills programmes.

What he said

In a video posted on Instagram on Monday, 9 November 2026, Adedimeji spoke about the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Skills Up Artisans (SUPA) initiative, describing them as meaningful steps towards transforming Nigeria's tech and creative sectors. He encouraged his followers to position themselves to benefit from them.

The reaction

Many followers focused on the timing of the video, with the 2027 elections approaching, and saw it as politically motivated. Some long-time fans expressed disappointment, while others said they still admired him and that he was entitled to share information about government programmes.

Background

Adedimeji is one of the most popular actors in the Yoruba film industry and is married to actress Mo Bimpe. Several entertainers have openly backed the President's re-election, including Saidi Balogun and Eniola Badmus, and have also faced backlash online.

The son of the second wife at the centre of the viral Ukehe controversy has spoken out, begging Nigerians to stop attacking his mother.

"Is it not enough already?"

"Nigerians, please stop attacking my mum. Is it not enough already? That woman does not deserve all this hate," he said.

"Do you want her to die? If anything happens to my mum, you people won't like it. Please, this is enough."

How it started

His mother has faced a wave of criticism online since a video from his father's Ozo title-taking ceremony went viral. In the video, the second wife's children reportedly refused to spray money on the first wife, Mrs Gertrude Anulika Ngwu, despite repeated appeals from the master of ceremonies.

Claims then spread online that Mrs Anulika had endured years of mockery over being childless and had moved back to her father's home. Those claims have not been independently verified.

Since then, well-wishers have visited Mrs Anulika with gifts and money, and the Enugu governor's wife sent a representative with cash and promises of a house and a business.

The other side of the story

The son's plea is a reminder that there are always two sides to a family story, and that online anger can quickly turn into harassment.

Sympathy for Mrs Anulika is understandable. But insults and threats against another woman, whose side of the story has not been heard, help no one. Families caught up in viral moments are still real people.

Over to you

Has the online reaction to the Ukehe video gone too far? Can Nigerians support Mrs Anulika without attacking the other family?

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released President Bola Tinubu's manifesto for the 2027 presidential election, setting out his plans for a second term.

The document

The 109-page manifesto, titled 'From Reform to Prosperity Agenda 2027–2031', was due to be formally unveiled at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre in Abuja on Tuesday, 10 November 2026. It covers security, the economy, housing, health and education, and says a second term would focus on turning the economic foundations of the first term into concrete gains for Nigerians.

Security

The manifesto pledges to train and deploy 50,000 new police officers and work towards one officer for every 400 citizens, recruit 28,000 more military personnel, and complete four new Army divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City. It proposes that the civil defence corps take over static guard duties from the police, the rollout of body cameras and forensic facilities, wider electronic surveillance of borders, and the deployment of forest guards, agro-rangers and mining marshals.

Economy, housing and power

It targets annual economic growth of 6 per cent by 2031, halving youth unemployment, and extending credit to half of economically active Nigerians. It promises 200,000 affordable homes under a mass housing scheme and aims to raise available power generation towards 10,000 megawatts.

Health and education

The plan aims to raise the share of functional primary health centres from 53 to 90 per cent, extend health insurance to 40 per cent of Nigerians, cut out-of-pocket health spending from 71 per cent to below 50 per cent, recruit 20,000 more teachers, halve the number of out-of-school children and expand the student loan scheme.

Background

Tinubu faces 17 other presidential candidates, including Atiku Abubakar of the ADC, Peter Obi of the NDC and Seyi Makinde of the APM, in the election on 16 January 2027. Makinde launched his 'Reset Agenda' last week. Opposition candidates have criticised the government's record on the economy and insecurity, while the President says his reforms saved the economy from collapse.

Former Abia State governor and senator Orji Uzor Kalu has said he once sold weapons to individuals and countries.

What he said

Speaking in a television interview reported on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, Kalu said he sold arms to anyone willing to pay, and that he was interested only in making money at the time, not in how the weapons would be used. He said he stopped after his mother and father told him to. Asked whether he had supplied the African National Congress during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, he said the ANC was not a specific customer and that he sold to anybody who wanted to buy. He did not say when the business took place or name any buyers.

Background

Kalu, a businessman and politician, governed Abia State from 1999 to 2007 and later served as senator for Abia North. He was convicted of fraud in 2019, but the Supreme Court later set the conviction aside on technical grounds. He has recently been in the news over comments on the Senate presidency and predictions about the 2027 election.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says 19,236 Nigerians were killed in road crashes between January 2023 and September 2026.

The figures

The FRSC's Abia State Sector Commander, Ngozi Ezeoma, told journalists on Monday, 9 November 2026, that there were 37,789 road crashes in the period, in which 118,720 people were injured. She said the figures came from the FRSC's Road Traffic Database Management System, and that speeding and human recklessness remain the biggest killers on Nigerian roads.

Remembrance day

She spoke ahead of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, which the United Nations marks on the third Sunday of November. She said the command would visit crash victims in selected hospitals as part of the commemoration.

Background

Last week, actor Kunle Afod complained about the slow emergency response to a crash on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, although the Ogun State Government disputed his account.

Manchester United are increasingly expected to sack head coach Michael Carrick after a poor start to the 2026/27 season.

What is reported

According to reports on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are expected to recommend to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family that the 45-year-old be dismissed. No final decision has been made.

Poor results

United had decided against sacking Carrick after a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on 25 October, giving him until the November international break to improve results. But the team is in the relegation zone after 10 Premier League matches. They drew 4-4 with Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday, after losing 2-0 to Chelsea and beating Roma 3-2 in the Champions League.

Background

Carrick is a former United midfielder. The club has a huge following in Nigeria, where Premier League football is followed closely.

American actress and model Toukie Smith has died at the age of 74.

What happened

Her twins, Airyn and Julian, whom she shared with her former partner, actor Robert De Niro, said she died in New York on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, after a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis. The news was reported on Tuesday, 10 November.

Her career

Smith was best known for playing Eva Rawley on the NBC sitcom '227', which she joined in 1989, first as a guest star. She also appeared in 'Miami Vice' and worked as a model, including in campaigns for Yves Saint Laurent. Born Dorris Smith in 1952, she took her stage name from a nickname given to her by her grandmother.

Background

Smith and De Niro began dating in 1988, and their twins were born via a surrogate. The couple's on-off relationship ended in 1996.

Nigerians planning to fly home for Christmas and the New Year are facing steep fares, with return tickets on some domestic routes reaching ₦822,000.

The fares

According to checks reported on Monday, 9 November 2026, major carriers including Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines and ValueJet have listed much higher fares for December 2026 and early January 2027, especially on routes linking Lagos and Abuja to the South-East and South-South. Air Peace listed a Lagos–Anambra return ticket between 24 December and 2 January at about ₦676,000, with the outbound flight at ₦341,500 and the return at ₦335,500. An Abuja–Anambra return costs about ₦677,000, and Lagos–Owerri about ₦671,000. The highest return fares found reached ₦822,000.

Why fares rise

Demand for flights to the South-East and South-South surges every December as many Nigerians travel home for the holidays, weddings and other ceremonies. Airlines say the high cost of aviation fuel, foreign exchange for maintenance and leasing, and a shortage of aircraft push up prices.

Background

Last week, one-way economy fares for flights around 20 and 21 December were reported at up to ₦337,500, increases of as much as 208 per cent. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission previously accused some airlines of price-fixing during the 2025 festive season, which the airlines denied. Many travellers turn to road transport instead, despite security concerns on some highways.

What it means

Travellers are being advised to book early to avoid the highest prices.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to produce President Bola Tinubu's nomination documents in the trial of activist Omoyele Sowore.

The order

The subpoena, signed by Justice Mohammed Umar, directs the INEC chairman to present Tinubu's Form CF001 from his 1999 Lagos governorship campaign, which includes an affidavit relating to lost certificates, as well as the equivalent form submitted before the 2023 presidential election. It followed a ruling on Monday, 9 November 2026, approving a defence request to call Amupitan and Joe Igbokwe, a former publicity secretary of the APC in Lagos, as witnesses.

The case

Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters and a former presidential candidate, is being tried over social media posts in which he described the President as a criminal. His lawyers say they intend to call both men to testify. The trial is due to resume on 11 November.

Background

Questions about Tinubu's academic records and early life have been raised by critics for years, and were the subject of legal challenges after the 2023 election, which the Supreme Court dismissed. The President and his supporters have consistently rejected claims of wrongdoing. Sowore has also faced other legal cases, including a separate cyberbullying trial in which a court recently rejected his bid to subpoena a DSS lawyer.

Jigawa State has declared Tuesday, 10 November 2026, a public holiday for a visit by President Bola Tinubu.

The visit

Governor Umar Namadi told journalists in Dutse on Monday that the President would hold an All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally and inaugurate four projects. He said it would be Tinubu's first official visit to the state since he took office in May 2023. The projects include a technical services centre, a skills acquisition centre named after the President, an agricultural mechanisation programme and a dualised road in Dutse.

The farm equipment

The agricultural package includes 400 tractors, 60 combine harvesters, 150 boom sprayers and 150 seeders, along with other equipment intended to boost farm output in the state.

Background

The Jigawa visit continues the President's campaign tour, which in the past week has taken him to Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Ebonyi states. Namadi, elected on the APC platform in 2023, is a strong supporter of the President's re-election. The North-West, which includes Jigawa, has one of the largest voting populations in Nigeria.

The White House was briefly placed on lockdown on Monday, 9 November 2026, after a car crashed into a security barrier near the complex.

What happened

Shortly before 10am, a silver sedan mounted the pavement and hit a sign at the northern end of Lafayette Park, directly opposite the White House, according to reports. Witnesses said the driver got out and became involved in a physical confrontation with Secret Service agents and National Guard troops. Two people were arrested. The press area was locked down, reporters were ordered indoors, and roads around the park were closed. President Donald Trump was in the White House at the time. Officials said the driver was combative but was quickly arrested.

Background

The incident came days after the Secret Service arrested an armed man near the White House who allegedly said voices had told him to kill the President. Officials have said the White House has seen a rise in security incidents, many linked to mental health problems. No motive for Monday's crash was given, and there were no reports of serious injuries.

President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of Chief Unanawao Eteyen Amba, popularly known as Utrikang Oro, a former deputy national secretary of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

The tribute

In a condolence statement on Monday, 9 November 2026, the President described Amba as a committed progressive whose contributions to party building and Nigeria's democracy would not be forgotten. He recalled Amba's loyalty during the ACN's formative years and credited him with helping to shape the party's structures and political ideas, as well as offering wise counsel.

Background

Tinubu was a leading figure in the ACN, which was one of the main opposition parties before it merged with other groups in 2013 to form the All Progressives Congress (APC). Details of the circumstances of Amba's death were not given in the statement.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has openly said he would be willing to become Nigeria's next Senate President, and would have no reason to turn down the position if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu backed him for it.

"I can't say no"

The former Abia State governor, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, made the statement in a television interview, as talk about the leadership of the next National Assembly begins to gather pace ahead of the 2027 general elections.

"If Tinubu chooses me as the next Senate President, I can't say no," Kalu said.

Brief as it was, the statement has added another twist to the political calculations already taking shape within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Zoning to the South-East?

For some time, there has been talk of zoning the next Senate presidency to the South-East. Nothing has been officially agreed, but that has not stopped political figures from being linked to the position.

One of the names being mentioned is Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who served as senator for Imo West before becoming governor. His reported interest has sparked political conversation, given his influence within the APC and his relationship with the party's national leadership.

There have also been reports of reactions involving FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, although the extent of any disagreement over the position remains unclear.

Kalu versus Uzodimma

Both Kalu and Uzodimma are experienced politicians from the South-East. Both have served in the Senate, and both have strong relationships within the ruling party.

The big question is whether the APC will actually zone the Senate presidency to the South-East in 2027, and if so, who will win the party's backing. For now, there is no official confirmation that the position has been reserved for the region.

The senators decide

It is worth remembering that the President has no constitutional power to appoint the Senate President. Senators elect their presiding officer themselves when a new National Assembly is inaugurated.

Even so, presidential support and internal party negotiations often play a major role in deciding who eventually emerges.

Whether Kalu's remarks signal serious ambition or simply a willingness to serve if called upon remains to be seen. What is clear is that the race for the leadership of the next National Assembly is already attracting attention, even before Nigerians go to the polls.

Over to you

If the Senate presidency is zoned to the South-East, who would be the better choice: Orji Uzor Kalu or Hope Uzodimma?

Davido's elder sister, Sharon Adeleke, has opened up about her fashion choices, revealing that she would rather spend good money on her hair than buy expensive designer clothes.

"My hair costs more than my clothes"

Speaking on a podcast, Sharon said she has never really believed in spending a fortune on clothing, no matter how much money a person has.

She enjoys looking good, especially when it comes to her hair, but she does not see the need to attach an expensive price tag to every outfit.

The wedding outfit drama

Sharon also spoke about her appearance at Davido and Chioma's white wedding, revealing that things did not go as smoothly as she had planned.

She said she had hired a stylist and a fashion designer to handle her outfit, but they failed to deliver as expected. Everything ended up as a last-minute arrangement, leaving her with little choice but to hope it worked out. At some point, she said, it was simply a case of "God abeg!"

A $2,000 wedding dress

She also shared an interesting detail about her own wedding. Despite coming from one of Nigeria's wealthiest and best-known families, she said her husband spent just $2,000 on her wedding dress.

She added that she personally paid for the dresses worn by all 13 of her bridesmaids.

Not what people expect

Her revelations are interesting because many people assume wealthy families spend outrageous amounts on everything they wear.

Now imagine Davido's own elder sister saying she doesn't believe in buying expensive clothes, while some people borrow money just to wear designer labels and impress strangers.

Over to you

Do you agree with Sharon that expensive clothes are unnecessary, even when you can comfortably afford them?

A woman in Nasarawa State has confronted a herder after his cattle entered her farmland and destroyed crops she had spent months cultivating.

Months of work gone

For someone who depends on farming to survive, watching cattle destroy months of hard work can be heartbreaking.

Imagine spending your money on seeds, preparing the land, planting and waiting patiently for harvest, only to wake up one day and find your crops destroyed. Worse still, many farmers borrow money to cultivate their land, hoping to repay the loan after harvest.

An old source of tension

Incidents like this remain one of the main causes of tension between farmers and herders in parts of Nigeria, and some have escalated into violence in the past.

The question is: who compensates the woman for her losses? Who takes responsibility for the destroyed crops?

Protection for everyone

Farmers deserve protection, just as herders have a right to carry out their lawful activities. But nobody should be allowed to destroy another person's livelihood without consequences.

Clear rules on grazing, quick ways to settle disputes and fair compensation could help prevent confrontations like this from turning into something worse.

Over to you

If cattle destroy a farmer's crops, should the owner be made to pay full compensation?

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed 1,608,660 invalid registrants from Nigeria's voter register.

What INEC announced

The commission said on Monday, 9 November 2026, that the removals followed complaints, objections and claims submitted by the public after it displayed the preliminary voter register in October. It also deleted the records of 876 voters confirmed to have died, after verifying claims submitted during the review. INEC said the display of the preliminary register was meant to allow citizens and civil society groups to flag errors, duplicates and other irregularities.

What happens next

INEC said it will publish the final, cleaned-up register on 16 December 2026, as required by the Electoral Act. The commission expects more than 103 million registered voters for the 2027 elections.

Background

The figure is in line with the roughly 1.5 million questionable records INEC said earlier it had identified. A former INEC director, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, questioned last week how so many invalid entries could have entered the register despite biometric safeguards, and called on the commission to explain how they were detected. Opposition parties have also raised concerns about alleged AI-generated photographs in the register.

Why it matters

A credible voter register is key to public confidence in the 16 January 2027 presidential election.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has sworn in 375 judges who will serve on the election petition tribunals for the 2027 general elections.

The ceremony

The swearing-in took place on Monday, 9 November 2026, at the Body of Benchers auditorium in Abuja, alongside the launch of the second edition of the Judicial Electoral Manual and a training workshop for judicial officers.

The CJN's warning

Justice Kekere-Ekun charged the judges to uphold judicial independence, resist political pressure and deliver justice without fear or favour, in line with the Constitution, judicial ethics and the rule of law. She also warned political parties, lawyers, the media and the public against behaviour aimed at undermining the judicial process, and specifically cautioned against the abuse of ex parte applications, which are orders granted without hearing the other side.

Background

Election petition tribunals hear challenges to the results of governorship, National Assembly and state assembly elections. Courts have played a major role in recent Nigerian elections, and pre-election cases are already shaping the 2027 contest, including a Federal High Court ruling that voided Atiku Abubakar's ADC nomination, which the party has appealed, and a ruling on the Imo West Senate ticket. Concerns about conflicting court orders, especially ex parte orders, have been raised repeatedly in recent years.

Senator Victor Umeh, who represents Anambra Central, has warned that any Igbo person working against Peter Obi's presidential ambition is an enemy of the Igbo people.

What he said

In a video that circulated on Monday, 9 November 2026, Umeh, a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), described Obi as the conscience of the Igbo people in the 2027 election and urged South-East residents to unite behind his bid. He cautioned political leaders in the region, particularly the Anambra State Government, against actions that could undermine Obi's campaign.

Background

Obi, a former Anambra governor, is the NDC's presidential candidate, with Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate. While he remains popular in the South-East, several of the region's governors have declared support for President Bola Tinubu. Anambra Governor Charles Soludo's APGA last week adopted Tinubu as its candidate and promised him half of the state's votes, while Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru on Monday promised Tinubu 80 per cent of Ebonyi's votes. The NDC in Anambra has set a target of 98 per cent of the state's votes for Obi.

Reactions

The Anambra government had not publicly responded at the time of writing.

Yul Edochie responds

Actor Yul Edochie, a supporter of President Tinubu, challenged Umeh in a video on 10 November, saying he respected the senator but that such remarks could make Igbo people see one another as enemies. He said political choice is a personal right, and noted that Tinubu and Seyi Makinde are both from the South-West, yet no Yoruba leader has called supporters of either man enemies of the region.

What happens next

The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

A viral image claiming that Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), was in hospital after a gym injury has been found to be fake.

The claim

The image was posted on X on Sunday, 1 November 2026, with a caption claiming Obi had injured his neck on a treadmill and been admitted to hospital. By Monday, 9 November, the post had been viewed more than 67,000 times, and similar posts had spread on other platforms.

The fact-check

According to a fact-check published on Monday, a reverse image search linked the picture to similar claims on other platforms, suggesting a wider effort to spread it. Several AI-detection tools found a high probability that the image was AI-generated, and a further check indicated it had been created with an AI image tool.

Background

Obi's campaign had earlier denied reports that he broke his neck in a gym accident, and the former Anambra governor has continued to campaign publicly, including at airports and rallies in recent days. Opposition parties have raised concerns about alleged AI-generated images in the voter register.

Why it matters

Fake images and videos of candidates are expected to be a growing problem in the 2027 campaign.

Reaching 100 years of age is no small blessing, and for the family of former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, it is a moment truly worth celebrating.

A century of life

The former minister's father has reached the remarkable age of 100, and family members have come together to celebrate his birthday and the gift of long life.

Photos from the celebration show the centenarian seated on an ornate chair in flowing white traditional attire, with coral beads around his neck, a red cap resting on his lap and a walking stick in hand.

Just imagine living for an entire century. The things he must have witnessed, the changes Nigeria has gone through, the generations he has watched grow, and the countless memories gathered along the way.

A special blessing

For his children, grandchildren and other loved ones, having their father around at 100 is something truly special. Many families would give anything for such an opportunity.

Happy 100th birthday to Papa Chidoka! May his remaining years be filled with peace, good health and happiness.

Over to you

Are you fortunate enough to have a parent or grandparent who has reached 90 or even 100 years? Share your story.

VeryDarkMan (VDM) does not seem to believe in fighting fairly. When he has a disagreement with someone, he appears willing to go to any length to make his point, even if it means bringing up some of the most painful moments in that person's life.

A painful chapter

Over the years, Davido has lost several close friends and associates in tragic circumstances. Their deaths set off all kinds of rumours and conspiracy theories online.

Some people even claimed the deaths were connected to rituals or sacrifices for fame and success. None of those claims was ever proven, and there is no credible evidence linking Davido to any of their deaths.

Imagine losing people who were very close to you, only to have strangers turn their deaths into accusations against you. Davido has lived with those memories for years. He has carried on with his music career, built his family and moved forward with his life, but moving forward does not mean the pain has disappeared.

Reopening old wounds

Now, amid his ongoing disagreement with Davido, VDM has reportedly brought those painful memories back into public discussion. This is where things appear to be getting out of hand.

You can criticise Davido's music, lifestyle, public statements or behaviour. You can disagree with him and challenge his opinions. That is perfectly normal. But bringing up the deaths of his close friends because of a disagreement raises serious questions.

What exactly is the intention? Is it to expose wrongdoing, to make a legitimate point, or simply to hurt someone where he is most vulnerable?

Where are the limits?

VDM has built a reputation for confronting people without holding back, and his supporters may argue he is only giving his opponents the same treatment they give others. But surely there should be limits.

Davido is not above criticism, and neither is VeryDarkMan. Both are public figures who should be held accountable for their actions. Using someone's personal tragedies as ammunition in a public quarrel, however, is something else entirely.

There are some experiences people never fully recover from. They may laugh and smile in public, but that does not mean they have forgotten. If winning an argument requires reopening another person's deepest wounds, perhaps the argument has already gone too far.

Over to you

People say all is fair in love and war, but does that mean we should abandon all compassion when we disagree with someone? Has VDM crossed the line with Davido, or is this just two public figures fighting without limits?

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed serious concern over the growing use of the controversial "Rig and Die" slogan by some political actors ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections.

A dangerous slogan

According to the electoral body, such language is dangerous and could encourage political violence, putting innocent Nigerians at risk as the country prepares for another major election.

Why it has come to this

The controversy also raises a question that cannot be ignored: why has Nigeria's electoral system reached a point where political actors feel the need to use such threatening language?

For years, Nigerians have complained about electoral malpractice, vote buying, intimidation, ballot box snatching and alleged manipulation of results. Many voters have grown frustrated, especially when they believe their votes do not count.

With the 2027 elections approaching, political tensions are already building.

Confidence in the process

INEC is right to warn against inflammatory statements that could endanger lives. But the commission must also recognise that public confidence in the electoral process remains a major concern.

Nigerians want elections where votes are counted honestly, results are transmitted transparently, and those caught manipulating the process face real consequences.

Political leaders, too, have a responsibility to avoid statements that could turn ordinary citizens into victims of electoral violence.

No election should cost an innocent Nigerian their life. At the same time, electoral offenders must never be allowed to operate without consequences.

Over to you

Should INEC be more concerned about the slogan "Rig and Die", or about fixing the electoral weaknesses that make Nigerians fear rigging in the first place?

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reportedly promised a ₦10 million reward to each councillor in Nigeria whose ward votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

What he said

Wike made the pledge during a political engagement in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, according to reports on Monday, 9 November 2026. He also praised his Rainbow Coalition, saying it was bringing together politicians from across the country, and urged residents of Kwali and the wider FCT to back the President's re-election, arguing that a second term would bring more development to Abuja.

Background

Wike, a former Rivers governor and PDP chieftain, leads the Rainbow Coalition of politicians from the PDP and other parties backing Tinubu. He has been one of the President's most vocal campaigners, frequently criticising opposition candidates Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar.

Why it matters

INEC this week also warned political actors against inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the elections.

What happens next

The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison.

The sentence

Brand, 51, was sentenced on Monday, 9 November 2026, after a jury of eight men and four women found him guilty of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others, in offences dating back to 2004. He was cleared of two counts of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault. Brand had maintained his innocence, saying all his encounters were consensual.

The judge's remarks

Judge Joel Bennathan said Brand had shown a casual and arrogant disregard for women's right to say no, and placed the crimes in the context of his rise to fame about 20 years ago, when he was widely seen as clever, funny and charismatic.

Background

Brand became famous in the 2000s as a stand-up comedian, television and radio presenter and Hollywood actor, and was known for his outrageous on-air behaviour and his public battles with drug and alcohol addiction. The allegations against him first emerged in a joint media investigation in 2023, after which he was charged by British police. In recent years he had reinvented himself as an online commentator with a large following.

Rapper Odumodublvck has spoken about a court case brought against him by a man he says repeatedly filmed him without permission.

His account

According to reports on Monday, 9 November 2026, the rapper said the man gained access to his home through a mutual friend and began filming him without his consent, continuing even after warnings from him and his bouncer. He said the disagreement continued at a party when the man brought out his camera again, and that he confronted him on stage, but that they later settled their differences, with the man even dancing with him while still filming. Odumodublvck said he was surprised when the man later took him to court, accusing him of assault.

Refusing to settle

The rapper said his lawyers advised him to settle the matter out of court, but he refused. The man's side of the story has not been reported, and the allegations have not been tested in court.

Background

Odumodublvck, is an Abuja-based rapper known for hits such as 'Declan Rice'. He went viral last week after a brief encounter with Peter Obi at Abuja airport.

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has accused officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) of stopping him from congratulating the Flamingos after their World Cup triumph.

What Obi said

Obi said he was at the airport in Abuja at about 7am on Monday, 9 November 2026, to catch a flight to Enugu, when he saw the Flamingos, who had just arrived with the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup trophy. He said he asked his protocol officer to find out if he could go over and welcome the players, but was told that NFF officials had refused, reportedly warning that anyone who allowed him near the team would lose their job.

'Not the first time'

Obi said this was not the first time he had been prevented from supporting a national team. He recalled travelling to Uyo in March 2025 to watch a World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, and said that although he was warmly received before the match, he was not allowed the same access afterwards.

Background

The Flamingos beat Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat on Saturday to become the first African team to win the tournament, and were welcomed back to Nigeria on Monday. President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady have both congratulated the team.

Presidency responds

The Presidency accused Obi of trying to politicise national sports teams. In a post on X on Monday, the President's special assistant on social media, Dada Olusegun, said the national teams, including the Under-17 girls, represent the whole country and not any party or individual's ambitions, and that protocol rules around national teams are designed to protect young athletes from political exploitation, commercial distractions and media pressure. The NFF itself had not publicly commented.

Ebonyi State governor Francis Nwifuru has promised President Bola Tinubu 80 per cent of the state's votes in the 2027 presidential election.

What he said

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally in Abakaliki on Monday, 9 November 2026, Nwifuru told the President that Ebonyi was an APC state, that 80 per cent of its votes were assured for him and that he would win by a landslide.

Background

The rally is part of Tinubu's campaign tour of the South-East and South-South, which has included stops in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states in the past week. Several South-East governors have declared support for the President, and the APGA in Anambra has also adopted him as its candidate. The South-East, however, is the home region of NDC candidate Peter Obi, who won most of the region's votes in 2023, and his party has set ambitious targets of its own, including 98 per cent of Anambra's votes.

How people reacted

The governor's pledge drew mixed reactions on social media. Supporters of the President welcomed it, while others questioned whether any governor could guarantee how residents would vote.

What happens next

The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Gospel singer Olayemi Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, is being laid to rest in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday, 9 November 2026.

The arrangements

According to funeral details shared on the singer's official Instagram page, the lying-in-state was scheduled for 9am to 10am, followed by a burial service from 10am to 11am at an event centre on Hope Road, Alakia, Ibadan. The announcement did not say where he would be interred.

The dispute

Toluwanisings died in the early hours of 14 October 2026. His burial was delayed by weeks of disagreement between his widow and his family over the arrangements, reportedly including where he should be buried. The Oyo State Police Command stepped in after learning of the dispute on 28 October, with Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Abimbola helping the two sides reach an agreement.

The burial

Videos from Monday's ceremony showed pallbearers in black suits carrying the singer's white casket, led by trumpeters, before he was taken to his home, where a private burial was held. Some fans remarked on the absence of fellow gospel artistes at the ceremony.

Background

Toluwanisings was a Nigerian gospel singer. The public dispute over his burial attracted wide attention.

Socialite and businessman Cubana Chief Priest has replied Minister of Works David Umahi, a day after the minister mocked his famous "money na water" catchphrase and asked how many people he has given scholarships.

"Pharaoh, let my people go"

Borrowing from the Bible story of Moses and Pharaoh, Cubana Chief Priest gave the minister a new nickname, and accused him of making promises to President Bola Tinubu that he cannot deliver.

"Pharaoh, let my people go. Stop giving Tinubu fake promises on votes. What project are you using to convince South-East people to vote for him?" he said.

The governorship claim

He went further, claiming that Umahi is preparing his son to become governor of Ebonyi State after the current governor, Francis Nwifuru.

Speaking partly in Pidgin, he said, in effect: "You're busy preparing your son to be governor after Nwifuru. God won't let that happen. You want to use Ebonyi State to settle your child. Let the young man come and meet us on the street so we can teach him how to make 'money na water'."

This is Cubana Chief Priest's claim, and Umahi has not yet responded to this latest attack.

How it started

The exchange began weeks ago when Cubana Chief Priest described Umahi as the second-worst minister from the South-East. Umahi hit back by telling him he was "becoming very noisy", comparing him unfavourably with Dangote and Otedola, and asking, "How many people have you given scholarships?"

Now the socialite has turned the argument back to politics, questioning what Umahi has done to win South-East votes for the President.

Over to you

Who is winning this war of words: the minister or the socialite? And is Cubana Chief Priest right to question what the South-East has to show for supporting Tinubu?

Popular Nollywood actress Destiny Etiko has reportedly secured a political appointment in Enugu State, with reports saying Governor Peter Mbah has named her Senior Special Assistant on Youth Engagement and Creative Economy.

If confirmed, the appointment would mark a new chapter in the actress's career, taking her beyond the movie industry and into public service.

A familiar face

Destiny Etiko has built a strong reputation in Nollywood over the years, becoming one of the industry's most recognisable faces. With millions of followers across social media, she has also become an influential personality, particularly among young Nigerians.

What the role involves

Her new role is expected to involve supporting youth engagement programmes, encouraging young talent and helping to develop Enugu State's growing creative economy.

There is plenty of work to be done. Enugu has a rich history in entertainment, arts and culture. With the right support, the state could create more opportunities for young filmmakers, musicians, content creators and others trying to earn a living from their creativity.

Celebrity appointment or real impact?

The real question is how much influence and responsibility the actress will have in shaping those opportunities.

Celebrity appointments often attract public attention, but what matters in the long run is the impact they make on ordinary people.

For Destiny Etiko, this could be a chance to use her popularity, industry experience and connections to help young people who are struggling to find their feet in entertainment.

Over to you

What do you think of Governor Peter Mbah's decision to bring Destiny Etiko into his administration? Is this a good move for Enugu's creative industry?

A house in Kano State has caught fire, with the incident being linked to its solar power installation.

Flames on the roof

Photos from the scene show thick smoke rising from the roof of a two-storey building, with flames breaking through beside a row of solar panels. A man can be seen climbing up to an upper-floor balcony as a crowd of neighbours gathers below, some filming on their phones and others watching in shock.

A growing safety concern

The incident raises serious concerns about the safety of solar installations, especially as more Nigerians turn to solar energy because of unreliable electricity supply.

Poor wiring, faulty batteries, overloaded inverters and improper installation can all create fire hazards. Experts often advise homeowners to use qualified installers, buy certified equipment and have their systems checked regularly.

Cause not yet confirmed

The exact cause of this particular fire has not yet been independently confirmed.

Over to you

As more Nigerians embrace solar power, are we paying enough attention to proper installation and safety checks?

The Ghanaian community in the United States has been thrown into mourning again following the disturbing discovery of the body of 24-year-old Joseph Owusu, a talented church musician who lived in the Bronx, New York.

Found in a bag on the sidewalk

Owusu's body was discovered inside a large black bag left near a trash can on a sidewalk in Brooklyn on 30 October 2026.

CCTV footage shows two unidentified people taking the bag out of a white car, leaving it by the roadside and driving away.

Who was Joseph Owusu?

The young man was the organist at the Ghana United Methodist Church in the Bronx. He was also studying computer science and worked as a caregiver for people living with disabilities.

A family demands answers

His devastated family is demanding justice as investigators work to establish how he died and who abandoned his body. Ghana's embassy in the United States has confirmed his death, and the Ghanaian government has called on US authorities to ensure those responsible are found and brought to justice.

Two young lives in days

The tragedy came just a day after another young Ghanaian, 15-year-old Javits Frimpong, was shot dead while walking to school in the Bronx.

Two young Ghanaians, two heartbreaking deaths in New York within days. Both families are now waiting for answers.

Over to you

What is happening to these young African lives in America, and what more should be done to protect them?

A group of suspected thieves in South Africa has become the talk of social media after they were reportedly caught and subjected to an unusual form of punishment.

The viral video

The suspects were made to lie face down on the ground in a single line by the side of a road, with each person's face pressed against the backside of the man in front of him. Their hands appear to be tied behind them.

Reports say they were caught by locals, although a uniformed officer can also be seen standing beside the men in the footage, so it is not clear whether the police or members of the public arranged them that way.

Laughter and concern

The incident has sparked mixed reactions online. Many people found the punishment hilarious, joking that South Africans seem to have invented a brand-new style of discipline.

Others were less amused, questioning whether suspects should be humiliated in public before any court has found them guilty, and whether members of the public should ever take the law into their own hands.

What we don't know

The circumstances of the incident, including where and when it happened and what the men are accused of stealing, have not been independently verified.

Over to you

Is this kind of public humiliation going too far, or will it discourage stealing?

Amnesty International has strongly condemned the reported killing of 12 members of a family in Zamfara State, describing the horrifying incident as another painful reminder of the Nigerian authorities' failure to protect innocent citizens from violent attacks.

An entire family wiped out

Imagine an entire family wiped out in such a cruel way. Twelve human beings, reportedly burned alive. People who had their own dreams, responsibilities and hopes for tomorrow, only to have their lives cut short in circumstances no family should ever experience.

The tragedy has once again raised serious questions about the worsening security situation in parts of northern Nigeria, where many families live under the constant threat of armed attacks, kidnappings and killings.

A failure to protect

For Amnesty International, the incident reflects a much bigger problem: the continued inability of the authorities to guarantee the safety of communities that have suffered attack after attack.

For years, residents of Zamfara and neighbouring states have endured violence from armed groups. Villages have been raided, homes destroyed, residents abducted and families forced to abandon communities where they have lived for generations.

Despite repeated assurances from government officials and security agencies, reports of fresh atrocities keep emerging.

Every citizen deserves protection

The Nigerian government has a constitutional duty to protect lives and property. That duty extends to every citizen, whether they live in Abuja, Lagos, Zamfara or a remote village far from the attention of the national media.

The victims deserve justice, and their surviving relatives deserve more than another round of official condolences. There must be a thorough investigation, those responsible must be brought to justice, and the authorities must take meaningful steps to prevent similar tragedies.

A country cannot claim to be making progress when families are being burned alive in their homes and communities are left wondering who will be attacked next.

Over to you

How many more innocent lives must be lost before protecting ordinary citizens becomes the government's most urgent priority?

Former Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa has explained why he abandoned former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to support President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election.

What he said

Speaking at an All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Saturday, 7 November 2026, Okowa reportedly said he had 'seen the light'. He argued that Tinubu inherited a country with foundations weakened by decades of mismanagement, and that the current administration was making tough but necessary decisions to fix them. He credited the government's fiscal reforms with increasing the revenue shared with states and local governments, saying the results could be seen in better project delivery and salary payments. He also compared Tinubu's record as Lagos governor with his performance as President, saying the same transformation was now happening across the country.

Background

Okowa was Atiku's vice-presidential running mate on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket in the 2023 election, which Tinubu won. He later left the PDP for the APC, following his successor in Delta, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Atiku is now the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), although a Federal High Court ruling last week voided his nomination, a decision the party has appealed. At the same rally, Tinubu questioned how Atiku built a university while he was vice-president, prompting a sharp reply from Atiku's campaign.

What happens next

Atiku's campaign had not publicly responded to Okowa's remarks at the time of writing. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

There is good news from Ogun State: all 10 passengers abducted from a commercial bus at Orita Fufu, Awa-Ijebu, have regained their freedom.

Released unharmed

The passengers were taken on Tuesday, 3 November 2026. Police say they were released unharmed on the night of Saturday, 7 November, following sustained security pressure and intelligence-led efforts.

Suspect killed, weapons and cash recovered

During a follow-up operation, police say one suspected kidnapper was killed. An AK-47 rifle, ammunition, ₦1.37 million in cash and a mobile phone were reportedly recovered.

Photos of the recovered items show bundles of naira notes, an AK-47 magazine and a mobile phone laid out on the ground in the bush.

Questions still unanswered

Police have not said whether any ransom was paid for the passengers' release.

Reports also differ on whether any of the passengers was a serving or recently discharged member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Safe at last

The most important update is that all 10 passengers are alive and safely out of captivity, after five days that must have been terrifying for them and their families.

The incident is another reminder of the danger travellers face on Nigeria's highways, and of the need for security agencies to keep up pressure on kidnapping gangs.

Over to you

What more should be done to make Nigeria's highways safe for travellers?

Nigeria's Flamingos have received a $50,000 cash reward after winning the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, but the team will not receive any official prize money from FIFA.

The reward

The gift was presented by Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, a sponsor of the National Sports Commission (NSC), at a reception held in the team's honour in Rabat, Morocco, on Saturday night, 7 November 2026, according to reports. The event was hosted by NSC chairman Shehu Dikko and director-general Bukola Olopade, and was also attended by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. The sponsor said the gift recognised the players' outstanding performance, commitment and determination.

No FIFA prize money

FIFA classifies the U-17 Women's World Cup as a developmental tournament and does not attach official prize money to it, unlike the senior World Cups. That means the champions receive the trophy and medals but no payment from world football's governing body.

How the final was won

The Flamingos beat Japan 2-1 in the final on Saturday. Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring when her looping effort slipped through the hands of Japan's goalkeeper, and Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the lead with a lob after a through ball from Esther Stephen. Japan's Fuki Ito pulled one back with ten minutes left, but Nigeria held on to become the first African winners of the tournament.

The Lagos State Government has sealed a church in Surulere over noise pollution.

What happened

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said on his X account on Sunday, 8 November 2026, that All Christians Gathering Ministry, located off Clegg Street in Surulere, had been shut and would remain closed until further notice. He said the action followed a complaint from a resident on X about noise from the church, and that officials investigated and confirmed the complaint was valid, finding the church in breach of environmental regulations. The sealing took place on Sunday morning.

No exceptions

Wahab said the government would not soften its position on such violations, whether the offender is a religious body, a business or anyone else.

Background

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency has sealed many churches, mosques, hotels, clubs and event centres in recent years over noise pollution, often after complaints on social media. Wahab is known for responding publicly to residents' complaints online. Just this week, another Lagos resident cried out to the commissioner over noise from a church at midnight.

Social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) has continued his public exchange with singer Zlatan Ibile, daring him to openly deny claims that he secretly sent celebrities to plead with VDM over their ongoing disagreement.

"Just come out and say it's a lie"

Speaking partly in Pidgin, VDM said, in effect: "It's been over 24 hours since I dared Zlatan to come out and say I'm lying that he sent people to beg me. He acts like a hard guy in public, but does something else behind the scenes."

"Just come out and say it's a lie, simple! Let me call out the names of the celebrities you sent. If they deny it too, then you'll see what my next post will be."

He added that he was only holding back out of respect for Zlatan's parents: "It's because your mother and father are involved. We still respect parents here. If not, everyone would already know that you have no class."

Tough in public, soft in private?

VDM claims Zlatan is acting tough in public while making moves behind the scenes to settle the matter, and has threatened to name the celebrities he says were sent if Zlatan stays silent.

The feud began after a video of Davido singing a line from Zlatan's song INFERNO at Zlatan's wedding welcome party in Morocco, a lyric VDM believes was aimed at him. VDM then warned Zlatan that he would "learn the hard way".

Allegations, not facts

For now, these remain VeryDarkMan's claims. Zlatan has not responded publicly, and his silence does not confirm them.

Over to you

Will Zlatan respond, or will he let VDM keep controlling the conversation?

"You're becoming very noisy. Money na water. How much do you have? Have you ever seen Dangote saying, 'I have money,' or Otedola saying that he's rich? Money speaks for itself. It's not by saying money na water. What have you done? How many people have you given scholarships?"

Those were the strong words of Nigeria's Minister of Works, David Umahi, as he fired back at Cubana Chief Priest, weeks after the celebrity businessman described him as the second-worst minister from the South-East.

"Money speaks for itself"

The criticism clearly did not go down well with the former Ebonyi State governor, who has now turned the conversation towards wealth, public conduct and what rich people are doing to improve the lives of others.

Umahi questioned the constant public display of wealth, particularly the expression "money na water" (meaning money flows like water), which Cubana Chief Priest is widely known for.

He pointed to two of Nigeria's richest businessmen, Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola, and asked whether Nigerians regularly hear them announcing how much money they have. For Umahi, genuine wealth should speak through achievements, investments and contributions to society, not constant declarations on social media.

The scholarship question

The line that stands out most is his question: "How many people have you given scholarships?"

That question takes the argument beyond who has more money. It raises a different issue entirely: what impact are wealthy Nigerians making in the lives of ordinary people?

Two different conversations

Cubana Chief Priest has every right to criticise a public officeholder, and Umahi, as a serving minister, is equally entitled to respond. But criticism of a minister's performance is ultimately best answered with evidence of work done, projects completed and results delivered.

That is what makes this exchange interesting. Umahi is questioning Cubana Chief Priest's display of wealth, while the original criticism was about Umahi's performance as Minister of Works. These are two different conversations, and Nigerians will have their opinions on both.

Over to you

Does Cubana Chief Priest need to prove how many people he has helped before he can criticise a serving minister? Or should Umahi focus on defending his performance in office rather than questioning another man's wealth?